Are infidelity tolerance and rape myth acceptance related constructs? An association moderated by psychopathy and narcissism

Willis, M. , Birthrong, A., King, J. S., Nelson-Gray, R. O. and Latzman, R. D. (2017) Are infidelity tolerance and rape myth acceptance related constructs? An association moderated by psychopathy and narcissism. Personality and Individual Differences, 117, pp. 230-235. (doi: 10.1016/j.paid.2017.06.015)

Abstract

Infidelity and rape are sexual transgressions that embody self-centeredness and disregard for others. The attitudinal frameworks related to each of these sexual malfeasances—infidelity tolerance and rape myth acceptance (RMA), respectively—may both result from sexual scripts that lack empathy. We proposed that infidelity tolerance and RMA are associated constructs and that their relationship is moderated by psychopathy and narcissism, both of which are characterized by a lack of empathy. In our cross-sectional study of 262 undergraduates, the relationship between infidelity tolerance and RMA was significantly moderated by both psychopathy (β = 0.125, p = 0.029) and narcissism (β = 0.133, p = 0.025). Specifically, the positive relationship between infidelity tolerance and RMA was strengthened as psychopathic or narcissistic traits increased. Further, in an exploratory set of analyses, we found that the self-centered impulsivity factor of psychopathy and the exhibitionism/entitlement factor of narcissism were driving their respective interactions with RMA. Infidelity tolerance and RMA are associated, especially in people that are more likely to lack empathy. The sexual scripts of people with psychopathic and narcissistic traits should be further examined. Other sexual scripts (e.g., hostile masculinity) may also result in a positive relationship between infidelity tolerance and RMA.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Willis, Dr Malachi
• Authors: Willis, M., Birthrong, A., King, J. S., Nelson-Gray, R. O., and Latzman, R. D.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > MRC/CSO SPHSU
• Journal Name: Personality and Individual Differences
• Publisher: Elsevier
• ISSN: 0191-8869
• ISSN (Online): 1873-3549
• Published Online: 04 July 2017